Buyer's Guide
Buyer's Guide
FRAME SIZE - READING YOUR GLASSES SIZE
Most frames have some size information printed on the inside of the frame, usually on the inside of one of the arms. The numbers usually look something like this:
52-18-139
In this case, the eye size is 52, the distance of the bridge is 18, and the temple (or length of the arms), is 139. The measurements are in millimeters.
ALSO LISTED IS THE BRAND AND MODEL NUMBER:
Brand/Model #GU125
Color #635
You can use this information to help find a frame that is similar in size to the frame you currently own. Or, to find frames that you recently tried on that are similar in size!
PRESCRIPTION EYEGLASSES/SUNGLASSES AND MEASURING YOUR
PUPILLARY DISTANCE (PD)
Pupillary Distance is the distance from the center of the pupil (black circle) in one eye to the center of the pupil in the other eye. This measurement is used to accurately center the lenses in the frame that you have selected. It's quite easy to have a friend or "loved one" calculate it for you (and then you have it for all future orders):
- - Place ruler (in mm) on the bridge of your nose.
- - Measure the distance between the centers of your pupils with your eyes looking into the distance (This can be done using a mirror or by a friend/spouse).
You can also get this information from your doctor or from a licensed optician.
A good prescription should always have PD written in the first place.
NOTE:
Typical adult's Pupillary Distance measurements (PDs) are from 54 to 66.
Typical children's Pupillary Distance measurements (PDs) are from 41 to 55.
**It is critical for you to either get the PD from your doctor or to measure your PD at home so that your prescription is accurate. Without an accurate PD, you may find that your glasses may cause blurring or headaches.*
Contact Us via phone or email if you have any questions regarding
"Pupillary Distance" and measurement.
LENS MATERIALS / LENS CHOICES
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PLASTIC LENSES |
Most lenses are plastic, but the least expensive plastic used for eyeglass lenses is called hard resin lenses. Hard resin lenses are good for everyday use. These lenses have the least distortion of any non-glass lens. For children or active adults engaged in sporting activities, we strongly recommend polycarbonate (impact resistant) lenses. If the sphere on your prescription is +/-2.00 or lower, you will not benefit from the more expensive thin lens types (high index, or aspherics). If the sphere on your prescription is higher than +/-2.00, you will benefit from the selection of a thin lens type. If the sphere on your prescription is higher than +/-4.00, we strongly recommend a thin lens type. Thinner lenses have three advantages: they do not look thick, they do not magnify or minify your eyes when seen by others, and they are lighter. |
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POLYCARBONATE LENSES |
Polycarbonate lens material is the best choice for children or active adults. Polycarbonate lenses are virtually shatterproof, provide the best eye protection of any lens, and include 100% UV protection inherently. If the sphere on your prescription is +/-2.00 or higher, you should choose polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are very difficult lenses to tint and are not recommended for people who want custom dark sunglass lenses (we suggest Trivex lenses in this case). The suggested prescription range for polycarbonate lenses is plano (0, no Rx) to +/-8.00 sphere. |
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TRIVEX LENSES |
Trivex is a new plastic lens material that is being used as a substitute for polycarbonate lenses. Trivex is optically superior to polycarbonate and it is lighter. Like polycarbonate it provides 100% UV protection and it is extremely durable. Most importantly, Trivex is a great substitute for polycarbonate lenses that need to be tinted, because Trivex can be easily tinted but polycarbonate cannot. Trivex is much better suited for tinting and is an excellent choice for rimless drill mounted frames. The suggested prescription range is Plano (0, no Rx) to +/-8.00 sphere. Trivex may be slightly thicker than polycarbonate lenses, but due to its specific gravity the weight will be similar. |
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HIGH INDEX LENSES |
High index lenses are good for people with prescriptions over +/-4.00 sphere, because they are thinner and lighter. Thinner lenses have three advantages: they do not look thick, they do not magnify or minify your eyes when seen by others, and they are lighter. The suggested prescription range is +/-4.00 to +/-8.00 sphere. High index lenses are a good choice for every day use. |
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POLARIZED LENSES |
Polarized lenses are tinted lenses that block vertical light from hitting your eye and causing eye strain. Hunters, boaters and fishermen, golfers, and drivers are the most common users of polarized lenses. Any surface can create glare in sunlight, including water, sand, snow, windows, vehicles, and buildings. Polarized lenses ease eye stress and fatigue in the sun, and lenses are available in several color and density options. |
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SUN-SENSITIVE LENSES |
Also known as photochromic or transition lenses, sun-sensitive lenses automatically darken to a moderate shade when they are exposed to the ultra-violet rays of direct sunlight. When the direct sunlight is removed, the lenses lighten again. |
LENS OPTIONS
ANTI-REFLECTIVE (AR) COATINGAR coating goes on both sides of an eyeglass lens, and on the backside of a sunglass lens, and it allows light to pass more freely through the lens. Anti-reflective coated lenses help to reduce eye fatigue in many situations, particularly while viewing computer screens and driving at night. Normally, approximately 8% to 10% of light is reflected away from the lens, robbing you of valuable detail for the eye. Also, as this light is reflected off the lens surface, it creates more glare that further impairs your vision. AR coated lenses allow approximately 99% of available light to pass through without interruption, thereby reducing glare considerably. Actors and newscasters like anti-reflective coated lenses because it greatly reduces the glare reflected from camera lighting and flashes. Anti-reflective coated lenses makes it easier for other people to see the wearers eyes, and it makes it easier for the wearer to see through the lens. |
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CRIZAL AR COATINGCrizal Anti-Reflective Coating eliminates the enemies of clear vision. With a No-Glare lens that reduces glare and resists scratches like Crizal, you will look, feel, and see your best. And, unlike other AR coatings, Crizal lasts as long as your rx does. Crizal's unique industry-leading technology combines anti-glare with double-sided scratch resistance, in addition to a hydrophobic - water resistant - layer. This easy-to-clean lens coating reduces glare from computer screens and night-time city lights to provide perfect, clear vision no matter the circumstance. |
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TINTED LENSESTinted lenses have been bathed in tint colors and can assume just about any color shade or color density. The tinted lens actually absorbs the tint color into the lens material. Tint density is defined as a percentage, where 0% is completely clear, and 100% permits no light to pass through (solid). A 10% to 20% tint is used for a fashion tint, and a 50% to 80% tint is used for outdoor protection from the sun. |
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Our most popular Lens tint colors:
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Gray/Smoke tints are perfect for those who want a maximum glare reduction that won't distort colors. |
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Yellow is often added to lens to enhance contrast, especially in overcast conditions. |
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Green most popular known as G-15 (the iconic lens color in Ray-Ban sunglasses). |
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Red is a bold fashion color and also is popular among people who enjoy seeing the world through rose-colored glasses. |
DISCOVER FRAMES THAT COMPLEMENT YOUR FACE
To find a flattering pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses, search for frames that contrast with your face shape (we offer suggested frames by face type in the "shop by category" section). As a general rule of thumb, smaller frames will look best on smaller faces, and larger frames on larger faces. Try a slightly larger frame to add a bit of glamour and mystery to your style.
For maximum effect, choose colors that set off and brighten your skin tone. Pick sunglasses in hues that you love to wear and that look great close to your face. Try to emphasize your favorite feature whenever possible, such as wearing vivid green frames with pale lenses to highlight emerald eyes.
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GLASSES FOR OVAL FACESAnything goes if you have a balanced oval face, so pick frames that match your style. Glasses with a square frame and soft edges will look great. You can also try experimenting with the latest designs, such as wraparounds or extra-daring, Jackie O-esque retro frames. Frame suggestions: Any frame shape |
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GLASSES FOR ROUND FACESChoose wider frame styles for this face type. Glasses with a rectangular frame or other angular frame with soft edges will help add definition to your face. Glasses with double bridge help pull the eye upward, adding length. Eyeglasses/Sunglasses with wider frames can help your face look thinner. Frame suggestions: Wider frames with Angular or Rectangular styles |
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GLASSES FOR SQUARE FACESThis face shape consists of a strong jawline, a broad forehead and wide cheekbones. Reduce the angles with soft, curvy styles that will give the face some definition such as cat-eye styles. Soften angles with classic oval frames or round frames. For more definition, add feminine flair with curvy, cat-eye frames. Frame suggestions : Oval, Round, & Cat Eyes |
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GLASSES FOR TRIANGULAR FACESThis face has a narrow jaw and a wide forehead. Soften the lower portion of the face by accenting the eye area. Styles such as cat-eyes should angle outward at the top corner and be wide enough to balance the jawline. You can also try metal frames with rimless bottoms. Accentuate the eye area to draw attention away from a sharp jaw. Choose styles with a straight top line, such as aviator sunglasses or eyeglasses with angular frames. Rimless glasses can also help lighten your overall look. Frame suggestions : Frames with a Straight Top Line or Cat Eyes |
SUNGLASS/EYEGLASS FRAME CONSTRUCTION
Sunglass/Eyeglass frames are often made of metal, nylon, or plastic.
METAL FRAMES
Sunglasses/Eyeglasses with a metal frame are strong but rigid. They can break or bend permanently if you twist them.
NYLON-FRAMES
Nylon frames, often used in sport sunglasses, are lightweight, strong, and flexible.
PLASTIC-FRAMES
Inexpensive plastic frames are lightweight, strong, and flexible. A rubber coating on the bridge and earpieces of sunglass/eyeglass frames allow them to remain positioned on your face.